Sam Baldock thanks Dons fans on ‘strange occasion’

Sam and George Baldock

Published:20:20Saturday 24 August 2013

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Sam Baldock admitted it was a ‘strange occasion’ as he returned to stadium:mk for the first time on Saturday.

Despite scoring twice to put Bristol City 1-0 and then 2-1 into the lead, Baldock, who wore the captain’s armband, wasn’t on the winning side but still received a standing ovation from the home supporters as he left the pitch at full time.

The former stadium:mk hero has netted five times already this season, but didn’t celebrate either of his strikes past David Martin.

“It was a strange feeling. I know Karl was asking for a good reaction from the fans here. I have so much respect for everyone here.

“I have too much respect for the fans to rub it in their faces, but it’s always great to score. It was an emotional occasion and I thank the fans for the reaction I got.

“It has been a strange occasion. There have been points where I didn’t know where to turn, but I think for me it has gone really well. One point and two goals - I can’t grumble.

“I knew it would happen at some point in the future, but I didn’t expect to be coming here quite so soon after I’d left. It has been strange but I thank everyone who applauded me today.”

The match also saw him taking on his younger brother George, And the pair were only within touching distance once - something Sam was all too aware of.

“I knew he was trying to smash me!” he said. “He’d been waiting so long for the opportunity to get near me on the pitch, but I decided to turn away from him and get the ball away!

“There wasn’t much talk between us before the game - neither of us wanted to give anything away! But we’ll chat later tonight.

“It would have been an emotional occasion for my parents, but I think they’ve got the result they’d have wanted - except maybe a goal from George. I think they’ll be pleased.

“We have always encouraged each other throughout our careers. Nothing has made me happier than to see him come on and get his professional contract and to be doing so well.”